All Requests for Modification or for Alternative Materials or Methods must be clear and complete in order to be accepted for review. It is important that the applicant submitting a request understands that West Metro Fire Rescue cannot waive the requirements of a particular code section, we can only review alternate ways to comply with the Fire Code. The cost of complying with the code is not a valid reason for a Request for Modification. The conditions under which the Fire Marshal of West Metro Fire Rescue may approve a Modification or Request for Alternative Materials or Methods are limited to the provisions within Section 104 of the International Fire Code which states:

•         Modifications: Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the building official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, upon application of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent, provided that the building official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical, the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, accessibility, life and fire safety or structural requirements.

•         Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment:  The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, not less than the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.